Illinois, Land of Lincoln ... Where the Road Begins |
Most travelers seem to start their journey on Route 66 in Chicago, and head westbound. That is the direction we take on this website.
The beginning point of Route 66 in Chicago has changed over the years. Today, the starting point is at East Adams Street at South Michigan Avenue, and the end point is at East Jackson at South Michigan. One way streets in the area can be difficult to navigate for first-time Route 66 visitors!
"The Mother Road" was established on November 11, 1926, and ultimately stretched 2,448 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Outside the metropolitan Chicago area, Route 66 followed the Pontiac Trail, a former Indian trail and stagecoach road.
From its beginning in Chicago, Route 66 headed southwest to Joliet, Pontiac, Bloomington, Springfield, Litchfield, and into Staunton.
When in Staunton, be sure to visit one of the most popular stops on Route 66, Henry's Rabbit Ranch!
Sad news ... it has been reported that Rich Henry passed away on Friday, August 16, 2024. Rich was widely respected for his work on developing Route 66, and his passion for loving and saving rabbits. He will be missed by the Route 66 community. |
Staunton, IllinoisHenry's Rabbit Ranch ... HARE IT IS!Henry's Rabbit Ranch Station and Visitor's Center looks like a real old classic filling station once found all along Route 66. At Henry's Rabbit Ranch you'll find a wide selection real live rabbits, Volkswagon VW Rabbits, and Route 66 gift and collectible items too. And nearby is a great collection of highway and trucking memorabilia that includes Campbell's "humpin' to please" trailers. And be sure to check out the giant jackrabbit and bunny graveyard. In 2012 the Ranch was inducted into the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame. Stop and visit with Rich and Linda Henry ... you will enjoy the visit! But check ahead, as the Ranch is not always open since it does not have set hours or days. The Henrys are semi-retired. The Ranch is located at 1107 Historic Old Route 66, Staunton, IL 62088 ... phone 618.635.5655 For more information visit the website of Henry's Rabbit Ranch and Henry's Rabbit Ranch on Facebook |
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Map showing the location of Staunton on U.S. Highway 66 in southern Illinois Alignments varied over time Click the map for current routing information |
MORE ILLINOIS ROUTE 66
More Information about Illinois Route 66
Enjoy Illinois - Office of Tourism: Route 66
Route 66 Association of Illinois